John Locke
An English philosopher and physician, one of the influential Enlightenment thinkers
Real World Example
John Locke was an English philosopher whose ideas greatly influenced the Enlightenment period, particularly in shaping the foundations of modern democracy. He believed in natural rights, which are life, liberty, and property, and argued that governments should protect these rights. During the time of A New Nation (1760-1800), his ideas inspired the American colonists, leading to the Declaration of Independence and the creation of a government based on the consent of the governed. His emphasis on individual rights and government accountability still affects us today, seen in democratic systems where citizens have the right to vote and express their opinions. For example, when people participate in peaceful protests or vote in elections, they are exercising the rights Locke believed were essential to human freedom and government responsibility.
